Nail Printing System Using External Imaging for Accurate Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nail printing systems require a camera to accurately detect the nail area for printing, leading to increased costs and complexity due to the need for image processing and camera integration.
Innovation Solution
A printing system that includes a detachable fixture jig with a reference mark, a communicator, and an imaging unit outside the printing apparatus, where the imaging unit captures an image of the fixture jig with the nail, allowing the processor to detect the nail position and area, and set the printing area based on this detection for the printing head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera is provided in the printing apparatus to detect the nail area, then the nail area detection accuracy is improved, but the apparatus cost and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging function is extracted from the printing apparatus and relocated to an external device (smartphone or tablet). The printing apparatus retains only the essential printing components, while the external device performs nail area detection through its own imaging capabilities. This separation eliminates the need for complex internal wiring and camera integration in the printing apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
An external device acts as an intermediary between the user and the printing apparatus. The external device captures the nail image, processes it to detect the nail area, and then transmits the processed information to the printing apparatus via wireless communication. This intermediary approach allows the printing apparatus to benefit from accurate nail detection without bearing the complexity of integrating imaging components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a camera is integrated in the printing apparatus for nail area detection, then the printing system functionality is improved, but the apparatus cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The external device (smartphone or tablet) serves multiple functions: it acts as the imaging device for nail area detection, the processing unit for image analysis, and the communication interface with the printing apparatus. By leveraging the multi-functionality of existing consumer electronics, the system achieves enhanced functionality without incurring additional costs for dedicated components in the printing apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The external device performs self-service by utilizing its own built-in imaging capabilities and processing power to detect the nail area. The device independently captures the image, processes it through image recognition algorithms, and generates the necessary printing parameters, thereby eliminating the need for the printing apparatus to provide these functions.
3Manufacturing precision
If image processing is performed within the printing apparatus to detect the nail area, then the printing precision is improved, but the device complexity and wiring increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical and electronic imaging system within the printing apparatus is replaced with a software-based image processing system running on an external device. Instead of using physical cameras and associated wiring, the system uses the external device's display screen and touch interface to capture and process images, thereby eliminating complex internal wiring while maintaining printing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing system includes a printing apparatus and a device. The printing apparatus includes a printing head, a fixture jig and a fixture platform. The printing head prints a design on a nail of a finger or toe. The fixture jig is detachable from the printing apparatus, includes a reference mark, and fixes the finger or toe. In the fixture platform, the fixture jig is set such that the reference mark and the nail of the finger or toe is in an X-Y plane. The device includes a communicator, an imaging unit and a processor. The communicator communicates with the printing apparatus. The imaging unit images the fixture jig with the finger or toe fixed thereon to obtain an image of the reference mark and the nail.